Upcycle An Old Pot Lid For A Smart Way To Keep Backyard Birds Happy In The Rain

If social media has taught us one thing, it's that there's always a way to repurpose unused items around the home — and pot lids are no exception. For example, Instagram user a_flocking_good_life showed us how she upcycled an old pot lid into a rain-proof roof for a backyard bird feeder. So if, during your annual home spring cleaning, you notice an unmatched pot lid taking up space, consider giving it a second life in your yard instead of tossing it out. Mounted above a feeder, the lid acts like a tiny umbrella, shielding birdseed from rain and helping keep the feeding area drier.

There are several ways to build your own budget-friendly bird feeder.  In the creator's feeder design, a plastic bucket serves as the main storage container, dispensing seed into the tray below as birds empty it. The used pot lid sits above the whole setup like an umbrella, shielding the feed from precipitation. It's a clever use for an orphaned kitchen item, and the main roof is essentially free.

To secure it to your bird feeder, you may need an S-hook, a carabiner clip, or a snap-hook key ring — all of which you can find for under $10. And if you have a hanging feeder, you'll also need twine, rope, or metal wire. For a metal lid without a center opening, you'll need a drill to create one. 

While the creator's version pairs the lid with a plastic bucket feeder, this hack works with just about any feeder design. Before you start, measure the feeder's width and choose a lid that extends at least an inch or two beyond it on all sides. You'll also want to ensure several inches of clearance between the lid and the feed tray so rain runs off the sides of the lid instead of pooling inside the tray. This space also lets birds access the food.

The basic idea is simple: create a secure attachment point at the center of the lid, then suspend or fasten it above the feeder. For a metal lid, drill a hole in the center, then secure it to the feeder with a washer and nut on its underside, or a simple knot if you're using rope. From there, create a loop and connect it to a hook or clamp to hang it up. 

A few upgrades can make it even more functional or stylish. You can paint the lid to add more flair. For example, consider making it red if you're looking to draw more hummingbirds to your yard, or blue if you want to welcome bluebirds and jays. Just be sure to prime the lid first, so it holds up well outdoors. If you prefer a more rustic aesthetic, try colors like terracotta or brown. For a more raw look, consider using metal wire and a large can for the feeder body.